Foregone

/ˈfɔːrɡɔːn/ adjective

Definition

Determined or decided in advance; inevitable or predetermined.

Etymology

From 'fore-' (before) plus 'gone' (past), literally 'gone before.' The phrase 'foregone conclusion' combines both words to mean a result decided beforehand.

Kelly Says

Foregone shows the power of prefix combinations—'fore-' appears in forecast, foresee, and forewarn, all suggesting something already passed or already decided. It's how we express the feeling that the future is already written before it happens.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.